Belmont mother accused of keeping kids out of school for over three years

GASTON CO., NC (WJZY) - A Belmont mother appeared in court Thursday morning after being accused of keeping her children out of school for more than three years, according to Gaston County Police Captain Bill Melton.

Jennifer Smith Elam has been charged with three counts of misdemeanor contributing to delinquency of a juvenile.

According to Captain Melton, Gaston County Schools first contacted the Gaston County Police Department regarding three children, ages 13,15 and 16 who had not been to school since November 2012.

Elam was arrested Wednesday and remains in the Gaston County Jail under bond.